Scrubbing Device

ABSTRACT

A scrubbing device is provided. The scrubbing device has a base member having at least one suction cup disposed on a rear side of the base member. The suction cup can removably secure the base member to a bathroom surface such as a sink, shower, or tub composed of materials such as tile glass, and porcelain. The base member has a scrubbing surface disposed on a first side thereof. The scrubbing surface also has at least one groove which is sized and shaped to receive a portion of a finger of a user. In use, the device is secured to the bathroom surface in order to enable an individual to clean their fingers and a hand without the need for a second hand to hold the device.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/916,838 filed on Oct. 18, 2019. The above identified patent application is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety to provide continuity of disclosure.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to personal cleaning devices. More particularly, the present invention provides for a scrubbing device that can be secured to a bathroom surface in order to enable an individual to clean their fingers, hands, or other surfaces without the need for a second hand to hold the device.

Many individuals have partial or limited use of a hand. Some individuals have no use of a hand, either due to neurological damage or amputation. For these individuals cleaning their bodies can be a daunting task. Without the use of a second hand, it is exceedingly difficult to clean the sole remaining hand and associated arm. In some circumstances the individual must rely on another to aid them in cleaning themselves. Family and friends may not be available to help, and utilization of home healthcare workers and the like can be inconvenient, burdensome, and/or expensive. Without such aid, the individual may inadequately clean themselves, or even decide to forgo the entire process which may increase their risk for contracting an illness or contagion.

Devices have been disclosed in the known art that relate to personal cleaning devices. These include devices that have been patented and disclosed in patent application publications. However, the devices in the known art have several drawbacks. Some devices are specifically designed for large areas of the body, such as the back, and do not allow for cleaning smaller features such as fingers. Some devices consist of a mounting bracket for brushes. These mounting brackets must be permanently affixed to a desired surface and cannot be easily removed to be repositioned or cleaned. Some devices provide a uniform surface made of porous material or bristles. These devices lack a channel that is specially designed for cleaning the fine features of an individual's fingers, such as underneath the fingernails.

The present invention substantially diverges in design elements from the known art and consequently it is clear that there is a need in the art for an improvement to existing personal cleaning devices. In this regard the present invention substantially fulfills these needs.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the known types of personal cleaning devices now present in the prior art, the present invention provides a scrubbing device that can be secured to a bathroom surface in order to enable an individual to clean their fingers and a hand without the need for a second hand to hold the device. The present finger scrubbing device comprises a base member having at least one suction cup disposed on a rear side of the base member. The suction cup can removably secure the base member to a bathroom surface such as a sink, shower, or tub composed of materials such as tile, glass, and porcelain. The base member has a scrubbing surface disposed on a first side thereof. The scrubbing surface also has at least one groove which is sized and shaped to receive a portion of a finger of a user. In use, the device is secured to the bathroom surface in order to enable an individual to clean their fingers and a hand without the need for a second hand to hold the device.

Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Although the characteristic features of this invention will be particularly pointed out in the claims, the invention itself and manner in which it may be made and used may be better understood after a review of the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings wherein like numeral annotations are provided throughout.

FIG. 1 shows a side perspective view of an embodiment of the scrubbing device.

FIG. 2 shows an exploded view of an alternate embodiment of the scrubbing device.

FIG. 3 shows a side perspective view of an embodiment of the scrubbing device, in use.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Reference is made herein to the attached drawings. Like reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to depict like or similar elements of the scrubbing device. The figures are intended for representative purposes only and should not be considered to be limiting in any respect.

Referring now to FIG. 1, there is shown a side perspective view of an embodiment of the scrubbing device. The scrubbing device 100 comprises a base member 110 having at least one suction cup 120 disposed on a rear side of the base member 110. In one embodiment, the suction cup 120 is composed of a rubber material to provide increased flexibility. In the shown embodiment, both the base member 110 and the suction cup 120 are circular in shape, and a suction cup diameter is larger than a base member diameter. As there is a sole suction cup 120 in the shown embodiment, the larger suction cup diameter provides maximum coverage relative to the base member 110. In other embodiments, multiple suction cups 120 are disposed on the rear side of the base member 110. In some of these embodiments, the suction cup diameter is less than the base member diameter to prevent the multiple suction cups 120 from overlapping.

The at least one suction cup 120 is configured to removably secure the base member 110 to a bathroom surface (as shown in FIG. 3). In the shown embodiment, the suction cup 120 is three inches in diameter in order to provide a large surface area through which the suction cup 120 can interface with the bathroom surface, while maintaining a small profile. The suction cup 120 is a flexible concave shaped member that has a soft sealable rim and is biased to return to its concave shape. When the suction cup 120 is pressed against a smooth surface air is forced out from underneath the concave aspect of the suction cup 120. The suction cup 120 is biased to return to its concave shape but because the soft sealable rim forms a seal between the rim and the smooth surface air is prevented from returning to the space underneath the formerly concave aspect of the suction cup 120. Due to the lack of air, and the flexible nature of the suction cup 120, a vacuum is formed. Once the vacuum is formed, air outside the device will press against the outside of the suction cup 120, thereby holding the suction cup 120 against the smooth surface. The greater pressure of the air outside the suction cup 120 pushes against the suction cup 120 and holds the suction cup 120 in place. One of ordinary skill in the art will understand that different materials can be utilized in the suction cup 120 to maximize the strength of the vacuum when held against various bathroom surfaces including but not limited to a sink, a shower, a wall, and a bathtub, and that these various bathroom fixtures and surfaces can also be composed of various materials including but not limited to tile, glass, vinyl, metal, porcelain, and plastic. Various types and styles of suction cup are contemplated by the current disclosure as such variation in types and styles may be necessary to adhere to various surface materials and surface textures.

In the shown embodiment, the suction cup 120 further comprises a pull tab 121. In the shown embodiment, the pull tab 121 is an extending protrusion from the perimeter of the suction cup 120. However, this disclosure contemplates other types of pull tab as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. The pull tab 121 is configured to enable a user to release the vacuum formed under the suction cup 120. In some embodiments, the pull tab 121 is also flexible and is composed of the same material as the suction cup 120.

The base member 110 has a scrubbing member 130 disposed on a front side 111 of the base member 110. The scrubbing member 130 is configured to clean a portion of a user's finger when the user's finger rubs against the surface of the scrubbing member 130, as shown and discussed in FIG. 3, below. In the shown embodiment, the scrubbing member 130 comprises the shape of a hockey puck. The hockey puck shape provides a broad and thick surface which enables a user to have a larger surface area over which they are able to rub and clean a portion of their body.

In one embodiment, the scrubbing member 130 is composed of a porous material that enables water and soap to flow therethrough. The porosity also enables a lather to form when water is mixed with a cleaning agent such as soap. In a further embodiment, the scrubbing member 130 is a sponge. One of ordinary skill in the art will understand that a sponge can comprise different grits depending on the material utilized in the formation of the sponge, and that both natural and synthetic sponges are contemplated by the present disclosure. In the shown embodiment, the scrubbing member 130 is a pad which differs from the porous material and sponge in that the pad is a woven textile. The present disclosure contemplates all forms of sponges, pads, luffas, and all similar textiles and materials typically used in cleaning an individual's body. It should be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the scrubbing member 130 can be utilized to clean any portion of the user's body as would be normally be cleaned by a sponge, luffa, or similar material, and is not limited to a user's finger or hand.

Referring now to FIG. 2, there is shown an exploded view of an alternate embodiment of the scrubbing device. The shown embodiment also includes a cross-sectional view such that different materials, textures, and the like can be visualized. In the shown embodiment, the scrubbing member 130 is depicted as two sections, a rear section (shown at the top of the figure) and a front section (shown below the rear section). In the preferred embodiment, the scrubbing member 130 is one continuous member that can comprise multiple textures and materials. In other embodiments, the scrubbing member 130 comprises multiple distinct sections that can be secured to the base 110 to form a desired shape.

The scrubbing member 130 comprises at least one groove 200. Each groove 200 is sized and shaped to receive a portion of a finger of a user (as shown in FIG. 3, below). In various embodiments, the groove 200 has a variety of lengths, widths, and depths in order to accommodate fingers of different lengths and sizes. In the shown embodiment, a single groove 200 is disposed in a top surface 201 of the scrubbing member 130. In such an embodiment, the scrubbing device can only receive one finger at a time. In embodiments with multiple grooves 200, the scrubbing device can receive multiple fingers at a time. In one further embodiment, a distance between the grooves 200 is uniform. In another further embodiment, the grooves 200 are spaced in a manner to emulate a comfortable and natural position that a user can spread their fingers.

In various embodiments, the scrubbing member 130 can be of various grits to provide a range of smooth and coarse surfaces. One of ordinary skill in the art will understand how a variety of textures and grits are desirable when cleaning various parts of a person's body, and such variety is contemplated by the present invention. In one embodiment, the scrubbing member 130 is a coarse grit to enable an individual to clean hard-to-remove substances from their body. In another embodiment, the scrubbing member 130 is a fine grit to reduce skin irritation and provide a smooth surface. In some embodiments, a first section 211 of the scrubbing member 130 comprises a different grit than a second section 212 of the scrubbing member 130. In other embodiments, the first section 211 and the second section 212 comprise an identical grit to provide for a uniform surface. Similarly, in some embodiments, a first section 211 of the scrubbing member 130 comprises a different grit than a third section 213 of the scrubbing member 130. In other embodiments, the first section 211 and the third section 213 comprise an identical grit to provide for a uniform surface.

In the preferred embodiment, the scrubbing member 130 is a single uniform material. In other embodiments an assortment of materials can be utilized to create different cleaning zones. In the shown embodiment, a coarse grit material is disposed on the first section 211 of the scrubbing member 130, a smooth material is disposed on the second section 212 of the scrubbing member 130, and a fine grit material is disposed on a third section 213 of the scrubbing member 130. The three sections 211, 212, 213 enable a user to selectively choose and utilize a desired section of the scrubbing member 130 to clean their finger in a desired manner. For example, the section with the coarse grit material can be utilized for a hard and rough scrubbing, while the section with the smooth material can be utilized for hands that are not very dirty, or for the elderly who may prefer a softer material. One of ordinary skill in the art will understand that various types of material can be disposed on each of the different sections, and that the number of sections, and placements thereof, can vary. For example, in the shown embodiment, the fine grit material is disposed on the third section 213 on the bottom of the scrubbing member 130, and the smooth and coarse grit materials are disposed on the first and second sections 211, 212 of the scrubbing member 130. In other embodiments, one or multiple sections are utilized to provide the desired materials.

In some embodiments, the scrubbing member 130 is reversible. The reversible nature of the scrubbing member 130 provides benefits such as a longer usable lifetime of a single pad. Where a first surface of the scrubbing member 130 wears out the scrubbing member 130 can be flipped over and a second surface utilized. As discussed above, in some embodiments the scrubbing member comprises different grits, and therefore the reversible nature of the scrubbing member 130 enables a user to select between the different grits to be used at the time. In some embodiments, the scrubbing member 130 is removably securable to the base 110. In this manner, a user can selectively choose which section of the scrubbing member 130 is disposed on top and which is disposed underneath. This enables a user to choose a desired grit or material for use, as well as provides a way for the user to interchange different scrubbing members 130 with different grits, number of sections, patterns of sections and the like. This also enables a user to replace a worn-out scrubbing member 130 without having to replace the entire device.

In some embodiments, the groove 200 further comprises a lip 230 disposed about a perimeter of the groove 200. The lip 230 can be utilized to further clean surfaces of the user's finger when such finger is inserted into the groove 200. For example, when a user inserts their finger into the groove 200 such that a fingernail is on the opposing side of the finger from the scrubbing member 130, the lip 230 can clean those surfaces of the user's finger adjacent to the fingernail. The user can also insert their finger into the groove 200 such that the fingernail resides outside of the groove 200 and on top of the lip 230. In this manner, a user can clean underneath their fingernails.

In some embodiments, the base member 110 has a female connector 250 which is configured to removably secure the scrubbing member 130 via a complementary male connector 240. In one embodiment the complementary male connector 240 extends one-half inch allowing it to be secured into the female connector 250. In the shown embodiment, the female connector 250 is a threaded channel and the complementary male connector 240 includes a threading complementary to the threaded channel disposed along a length of the male connector 240. In a further embodiment, the threading is composed of a plastic material. Other types of complementary male and female connectors are also contemplated by the present disclosure including friction fitting connectors, interlocking connectors and the like.

Referring now to FIG. 3, there is shown a side perspective view of an embodiment of the scrubbing device, in use. In use, a user can attach the scrubbing device to a bathroom surface 300 via a suction cup 120 disposed on a rear side of a base member 110. By pushing the suction cup 120 against the bathroom surface 300 a vacuum is formed underneath the suction cup 120 which holds the base member 110 against the bathroom surface 300 securely. In embodiments where the base member 110 has a female connector, the user can then secure a removably securable scrubbing member 110 to the base member 110 via a complementary male connector. In this manner, the user can change and secure a compatible scrubbing member 110 with features and characteristics which the user desires to utilize. The user can then rub or scrub a body part, such as a finger 310, against an exterior surface of the scrubbing member 110. Water, soap, and other similar cleaning solutions can be added to provide an easier and more effective cleaning of the body surface. The user can also avail themselves of a groove 200 and a lip to further clean the desired finger 310. The groove 200 and the lip are sized, shaped, and contoured to match typical sizes, shapes, and contours of fingers, thereby providing an easier method of cleaning the same. The lip, in particular, provides the advantage of cleaning a top portion of the user's finger in addition to the sides and back portion thereof, as the groove 200 and lip wrap around the user's finger 310. The lip can also be utilized to more effectively clean underneath fingernails of the finger 310. As the scrubbing device is held securely in place by the suction cup 120, the user is not required to use a hand, or other body part, to hold the device in place while the use rubs or scrubs body parts against the device. The scrubbing device is easily removed from the bathroom surface 300 via a pull tab 121 that is configured to release the vacuum formed underneath the suction cup 120. In this manner, the user can position and reposition the scrubbing device to an area of the bathroom surface 300 that best meets their needs.

Therefore, the present invention provides a convenient scrubbing device that can be utilized for one-handed cleaning. The scrubbing device is portable, such that the user can take the scrubbing device and attach it to any desired surface via the suction cup 120. For example, a user can take the scrubbing device into a public or unfamiliar restroom such that they maintain their personal hygiene and do not touch any potentially contaminated surfaces. In this way, the scrubbing device can be utilized in many different locations and situations to provide a portable, hands free cleaning solution.

It is therefore submitted that the instant invention has been shown and described in what is considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments. It is recognized, however, that departures may be made within the scope of the invention and that obvious modifications will occur to a person skilled in the art. With respect to the above description then, it is to be realized that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by the present invention.

Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention. 

I claim: 1) A scrubbing device, comprising: a base member having at least one suction cup disposed on a rear side of the base member; the at least one suction cup configured to removably secure the base member to a bathroom surface; the base member having a scrubbing member disposed on a front side thereof; the scrubbing member further comprising at least one groove; and wherein the groove is sized and shaped to receive a portion of a finger of a user. 2) The scrubbing device of claim 1, wherein the suction cup is composed of a rubber material. 3) The scrubbing device of claim 1, wherein the suction cup is three inches in diameter. 4) The scrubbing device of claim 1, wherein the scrubbing member is a porous material. 5) The scrubbing device of claim 1, wherein the scrubbing member is a sponge. 6) The scrubbing device of claim 1, wherein the scrubbing member is a pad. 7) The scrubbing device of claim 1, wherein the scrubbing member comprises the shape of a hockey puck. 8) The scrubbing device of claim 1, wherein the scrubbing member is a coarse grit. 9) The scrubbing device of claim 1, wherein the scrubbing member is a fine grit. 10) The scrubbing device of claim 1, wherein the groove further comprises a lip disposed about a perimeter of the groove. 11) The scrubbing device of claim 1, wherein each suction cup further comprises a pull ab. 12) A scrubbing device, comprising: a base member having at least one suction cup disposed on a rear side of the base member; the at least one suction cup configured to removably secure the base member to a bathroom surface; the base member having a female connector configured to removably secure a scrubbing member via a complementary male connector; the scrubbing member further comprising at least one groove; and wherein the groove is sized and shaped to receive a portion of a finger of a user. 13) The scrubbing device of claim 12, wherein a first side of the scrubbing member comprises a different grit than a second side of the scrubbing member. 14) The scrubbing device of claim 12, wherein a first side of the scrubbing member comprises an identical grit to a second side of the scrubbing member. 15) The scrubbing device of claim 12, wherein the scrubbing member is reversible. 16) The scrubbing device of claim 15, wherein a first end of the scrubbing member comprises a different grit than a second end of the scrubbing member. 17) The scrubbing device of claim 15, wherein a first end of the scrubbing member comprises an identical grit to a second end of the scrubbing member. 